Tired of crowded cities and noisy spots? Let’s slow down and explore a peaceful corner of the Italian Alps—Lake Misurina.

It’s not the first lake we hear about in Italy, but it’s the one that quietly wins our hearts with crystal-clear water, towering peaks, and the kind of silence that feels like a soft hug.

Where Is Lake Misurina and Why Should We Go?

Lake Misurina sits at an altitude of 5,755 feet (1,754 meters) in the Dolomites, part of the Italian Alps. It's in the Veneto region, near the town of Auronzo di Cadore, and just a 25-minute drive from Cortina d’Ampezzo. What makes this lake truly special is how it mirrors the sky, trees, and mountains so clearly that it feels like we’re walking through a painting.

Is There an Entrance Fee?

Nope! The best news? It’s 100% free. There’s no entrance fee to walk around Lake Misurina, no ticket booths, and no time limits. That means we can visit at sunrise, stay for sunset, or even have a quiet evening stroll without worrying about the cost.

Best Time to Visit Lake Misurina

The ideal months to visit are June to early October, when the weather is mild (between 50°F to 75°F / 10°C to 24°C), and hiking trails are fully open.

Winter (December–February) is beautiful too, with snow covering the mountains—but be ready for icy roads.

Best time of day:

- Morning (7:00–10:00 AM): calm reflections and fewer tourists

- Late afternoon (4:00–6:00 PM): golden light on the mountains, perfect for photos

How Do We Get There?

- By car: Driving is the easiest way. From Cortina d’Ampezzo, it’s a scenic 9-mile (14 km) drive. Parking near the lake is available, some spaces are free, others charge around $2–$5 per hour.

By public transport:

- Summer bus line 445 connects Cortina and Dobbiaco to Misurina. One-way ticket costs about $5.

- From Dobbiaco train station, we can take a local bus (approx. $6) or taxi ($30–$40 for the 40-minute ride).

What Can We Do at Lake Misurina?

Lake Misurina is more than just pretty water—it’s full of relaxing and scenic activities:

- Walk around the lake: Flat, easy 1.2-mile (2 km) loop. Takes 30–40 minutes.

- Boat rental: In summer, pedal boats are available for about $15/hour.

- Photography: The reflection of the Cadini di Misurina peaks is unforgettable.

- Hiking: It's a great starting point for the famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike. Shuttle buses run in summer for about $8 round trip.

- Air therapy: The area’s clean air helps with breathing issues. It even hosts Italy’s only children’s asthma rehab center!

Where Can We Eat and Sleep?

Where to eat:

- Pizzeria Edelweiss: Classic wood-fired pizza and pasta, around $12–$18 per meal.

- Malga Misurina: Local dishes with alpine flair, $15–$25 per person.

Where to stay:

- Grand Hotel Misurina: Lake views, indoor pool, rooms start at $130/night

- Hotel Lavaredo: Cozy, right by the water, around $100/night

Travel Tips from One Traveler to Another

- Dress in layers: Even in summer, evenings get chilly

- Pack water and snacks: There aren’t many shops nearby

- Visit on weekdays: Weekends can get crowded in peak season

- Bring cash: Some small places don’t accept cards

- Watch the weather: Storms can roll in quickly in the Alps

Why Lake Misurina Deserves a Spot on Our List

In a country full of world-famous sights, Lake Misurina stays quiet and graceful—like a gentle pause in the middle of a busy story. With no entrance fees, no tourist rush, and a view that feels like a deep breath, it offers us the kind of stillness that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Lykkers, if you've been searching for a place that helps you slow down, feel grounded, and simply enjoy the present moment—this might just be it. Let’s keep discovering the peaceful corners of the world, one beautiful step at a time.